If your car is having a hard time starting, there’s a good chance that the camshaft position sensor is malfunctioning. This little sensor works with the ignition system to help the engine start by measuring the timing and therefore, the camshaft position. If it’s not working properly, the sensor will not be able to accurately determine the camshaft position and as a result, your engine may not start. In order to replace this sensor, you will need to remove the dashboard and upper parts of the dashboard. After that, it’s just a matter of removing screws and replacing the sensor. Don’t forget to reinstall everything in reverse order so that you don’t void your warranty!
What is the Camshaft Position Sensor?
The camshaft position sensor (CPS) is a sensor in the engine that monitors the rotation of the camshafts. The CPS helps the engine control timing and fuel injection. If there is an issue with the CPS, it can cause poor engine performance or even a stall. In some cases, a defective CPS can also lead to loss of engine power. A faulty CPS is usually caused by water getting trapped in the sensor or due to corroded connections. Sometimes, a defective CPS just needs to be replaced altogether.
Identification and Removal of the Camshaft Position Sensor
The camshaft position sensor (CPS) is a device that sends information to the engine management system (EMS) about the position of the camshaft. The CPS can fail for a variety of reasons, and when it does, the EMS will not be able to properly control the engine. If this occurs, you may experience stall or hesitation while driving. In many cases, simply removing the CPS will solve the problem.
To identify whether or not your CPS is failing, you’ll need to remove the air intake system and the cooling fan assembly. Once these are removed, you can access the CPS located behind them on either side of the head. To replace the CPS, first remove any debris or corrosion that may have accumulated around it over time. Next, use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen all of the screws holding down the sensor housing cover. Be sure to label each screw so that you can easily re-install them later. Once all of the screws are out, gently pull off the housing cover and then remove the sensor itself. Replacing it is just as easy: simply re-attach the housing cover and screw it in place using the same screws that were originally used.
Replacement of the Camshaft Position Sensor
The camshaft position sensor is a sensor that monitors the position of the camshafts and keeps the engine running at its proper speed. If the sensor becomes damaged or fails, it will need to be replaced. Here are instructions on how to replace the camshaft position sensor on a VW Beetle:
1. Locate the camshaft position sensor in your VW Beetle. It is located near the top of the engine near where the exhaust manifold connects to the cylinder head.
2. Remove the screws that hold down the sensor housing and carefully pull it off of the engine block. Be sure to preserve any electrical connections that are made to it!
3. Inspect the inside of the housing for any damage or debris. If there is anything obstructing inspection, use a small tool to remove it.
4. Replace any damaged parts and reattach the housing using fresh screws. Be sure to check all wiring connections before you put everything back together!
Testing the Camshaft Position Sensor after Installation
If you have recently replaced your camshaft position sensor (also called a cam sensor or lifter sensor), it is important to check that the sensor is working properly. To do this, you will need to remove the Intake manifold and inspect the connector between the sensor and engine computer. If there are any signs of damage or wear, then you will need to replace the sensor.
1. Remove the air intake system by unscrewing three screws on each side of the front fascia, pulling it forward.
2. Disconnect the connectors between the air intake system and engine computer using a screwdriver.
3. Remove the upper intake plenum by unscrewing six bolts, then pulling it forward until it disconnects from the rest of the assembly.
4. Remove the four spark plugs andvmacro-injector pack by removing twoPhillips head screws on each side, then lifting off both assemblies while leaving the wiringconnected to them.
5. Now is a good time to clean all ofthe components around these circuits before we try and repair anything! Use brake cleaner, carb cleaner or degreaser on a cloth to clean everything up nicely – especially aroundthe connectors and spark plugs sockets where grease and combustion particles can build up over time. Don’t forgetto remove any debris that has fallen down into these cavities during installation!
6. With everything removed except forthe engine block itself, we can now start work on checking out our sensors